Collie opts for ‘lowest rise’ in rates

Collie residents can expect a rate rise of less than 2.5 per cent, according to shire president Sarah Stanley.

Collie Shire Council voted to adopt a rate rise of 2.482 per cent at a special budget meeting last week.

Cr Stanley said the increase was the lowest set in the South West so far this year.

“The vast majority of property owners in the Shire of Collie can expect an increase of less than $50 when comparing it to last year’s rates,” she said.

“Shire staff and councillors have worked really hard to keep this year’s rate increase to an absolute minimum, while maintaining the standards of service our community has come to expect.

“Setting the budget each year is a delicate balancing act between strategic and long-term planning, controlling ever-increasing costs and addressing urgent needs.”

Cr Stanley said key projects supported in this year’s budget include the continued provision for economic development, an increase to the allocation to the Collie Visitor Centre and an investigation into the shire’s future water supply.

“Funds were also set aside for urgent works required to facilities including the Roche Park Recreation Centre and modifications to the waste transfer station’s weighbridge to allow it to service trucks greater than 20 metres,” she said.

“Council’s decision not to support the officer’s recommendation to seek quotations for solar panels and to provide for a loan of up to $90,000 in this year’s budget does not mean that the shire will not consider solar panels at some point in the future.

“We know that Collie is at an extremely vulnerable point right now, with impacts expected from changes in the energy landscape.”